Jota approach rejected as Al Ittihad look at solutions for Celtic’s £25m export

Celtic’s sale of Jota looked to be the beginning of a lucrative new life for the Portuguese sensation. However, the move to Jeddah has not panned out as he would have expected. The player is now on the periphery of Nuno’s Al Ittihad squad and has not been registered for Saudi Pro League action, prompting calls for the player to be moved on.

According to Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Awsat, via Record Sport, Jota’s representatives have approached the Saudi club regarding paying up his contract and allowing him to leave but they have rebuffed his request, stating that they are looking at alternative solutions to the issue.

Jota will reportedly be afforded the opportunity to play in cup competitions but this will still be a small sample of games over the course of the season. The Saudi side is likely to be playing hardball with Jota and are looking to get him to concede a chunk of his £192pw wages.

Celtic, meanwhile, banked a fortune on the deal that puts the club on a stable financial footing. They would potentially be interested in resigning the player should he become available again in the January window. In two years with the Scottish Champions, Jota won five trophies while contributing with 28 goals and 26 assists.